Flight delays are a frustrating reality for many travelers in Romania. Whether you’re flying from Bucharest Henri Coandă Airport (OTP), Cluj-Napoca (CLJ), or Iași (IAS), unexpected disruptions can turn a simple journey into an exhausting ordeal. However, EU Regulation EC 261/2004 protects passengers traveling to and from Romania, ensuring they receive compensation for delays caused by airlines.
If your flight was delayed by more than three hours, you could be eligible for up to €600 in compensation. Let’s explore your rights, the steps to claim, and what to do when faced with a lengthy delay.
Romania is a growing hub for tourism and business travel, with airports handling millions of passengers annually. However, several factors contribute to frequent delays:
Romania experiences harsh winters and unpredictable storms, especially in Bucharest, Cluj, and Timișoara. Fog and snow can cause long delays, particularly in December and January.
Major airports like Henri Coandă (OTP) are becoming increasingly congested. With more flights operating daily, delays are common during peak hours.
Sometimes, delays occur due to technical failures, missing crew members, or late aircraft arrivals. If the airline is responsible, you have the right to claim compensation.
Occasionally, air traffic control strikes or airport staff shortages lead to flight schedule disruptions. While some strikes are considered “extraordinary circumstances,” many cases still qualify for compensation.
If your flight arrived at its final destination more than three hours late, and the delay was not caused by extraordinary circumstances, you are likely eligible for financial compensation.
€250 – Flights up to 1,500 km (e.g., Bucharest to Vienna)
€400 – Flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km (e.g., Cluj-Napoca to London)
€600 – Flights over 3,500 km (e.g., Bucharest to Dubai)
You can submit a claim even if the airline provided food, hotel accommodation, or rebooked you on another flight. Your rights remain valid for up to 3 years!
Ask the airline staff for the official reason for the delay. Make sure to document the exact arrival time at your final destination.
Take photos of the departure board showing the delay.
Keep boarding passes, tickets, and receipts for expenses.
Ask for written confirmation from the airline regarding the cause of delay.
For delays over two hours, airlines must provide:
Free meals and drinks
Hotel accommodation if the delay extends overnight
Transport to and from the hotel if applicable
Many passengers don’t realize they’re entitled to money for delays! Instead of dealing with airline bureaucracy, let Trouble Flight handle your claim. Our team fights for your rights and ensures you get what you deserve.
If your flight is significantly delayed, consider alternative airports in Romania:
Flying from Sibiu (SBZ) instead of Cluj-Napoca (CLJ) – A short 2-hour bus or train ride can give you better options.
Departing from Timișoara (TSR) if flights from Bucharest (OTP) are delayed – Some low-cost airlines may have available seats.
Always check same-day flights with different airlines or train connections to your destination if time is critical.
The process can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the airline’s response. Trouble Flight speeds up the process by handling negotiations on your behalf.
Many airlines reject initial claims. However, we have legal experts who can escalate your case, increasing your chances of getting paid.
Unfortunately, extraordinary circumstances like extreme weather or airport closures do not qualify for compensation. However, technical issues, staffing problems, and operational failures do.
If you accepted a voucher, you may have waived your right to financial compensation. However, in some cases, you might still be eligible for a claim. Let our team check your case for free!
If your flight was delayed in Romania, you may be entitled to compensation. Don’t let airlines take advantage of your rights—submit your claim today with Trouble Flight. Our experts work on a no-win, no-fee basis, meaning you only pay if we recover money for you.
💰 Check your eligibility now and claim up to €600!